More than 125 women who want to learn about technical-career opportunities long associated with the male gender will get that chance on Wednesday, March 19 when Amarillo College hosts “Women in Industry” on the East Campus.The event is from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and participants will engage in career exploration and seminars relevant to the pursuit of technical careers. 

The first students to complete the Construction Technology Program that Ernie Sheets launched a couple years ago at Amarillo College will cross the stage at Spring Commencement, and their mentor’s emotions will be running high.

“Sometimes I get a little teary-eyed just thinking about it,” said Sheets, who at AC coordinates construction technology and additionally serves as chairman for all the manufacturing programs. “Those students have become things they didn’t realize they could be,” – carpenters, cabinet makers, a plumber, and more.

One of two students who in April were tabbed to represent Amarillo College in the SkillsUSA Texas Ambassador Fellowship Program, just received an additional award, one of only four presented to SkillsUSA members nationwide.

Brandon Martinez, a construction technology major, is the recipient of a prestigious $1,300 Leverage Scholarship, funds generously contributed by Robert L. Flint, a former Caterpillar executive and longtime SkillsUSA supporter.